LeBron James to finish NBA career with Philadelphia Sixers
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Break out those crowns: The LeJawn era has officially begun.
Why it matters: After weeks of making fans sweat — and dropping plenty of hints about where he might land — basketball superstar LeBron James has chosen to finish his career with the Philadelphia Sixers.
Driving the news: The 41-year-old James spurned several other teams, including Cleveland and Miami — the two cities where he spent a good chunk of his career and helped deliver NBA championships.
- James announced his decision on Friday, weeks after informing the Lakers — a team he played for over the last eight seasons — that he'd be playing elsewhere this season.
What they're saying: James wrote on X that he isn't coming to Philly for "money" or "family," but a chance to win another ring.
- "I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship. I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time."
Catch up quick: Speculation had been buzzing that Philly might land the legend, especially after he dropped Joel Embiid's nickname during a recent live taping of his podcast.
- Notable Pennsylvanians, including Sixers owner Josh Harris and Gov. Shapiro, had reportedly tried to sell James on joining the Sixers, who became a more attractive destination after trading for superstar guard Jaylen Brown.
Flashback: After being drafted in 2003 by the Cleveland Cavaliers — not far from his hometown of Akron, Ohio — the "Chosen One" will be entering his 24th season in the league.
- Drawing comparisons to Michael Jordan, James surpassed Jordan as the NBA's all-time leading scorer and has won four NBA titles (Jordan has six with the Bulls).
Yes, but: In Philly, James has a chance to do something not even Jordan did: win a championship with his fourth different franchise.
- That would be a remarkable feat, since Philly hasn't hoisted the Larry O'Brien trophy since 1983 — the year before James was born.
The bottom line: For some, James will forever be nipping at Jordan's heels.
- But in Philly, he has a chance to heal a city that's spent years watching its postseason dreams dashed, largely by injuries to its biggest stars.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to add James' statement.